LotRseer3350 - Ahh, the unexpected! The more unexpected, the better, eh? Lotho will be plotting some nastiness indeed, after taking one more try at something more subtle.
FrodoBaggins87 - There was no way I could let Lotho get to Frodo while he was sick. Too many friends and family members in the way! I tried, but they just kept interfering! To answer your question about my other stories, "In Safekeeping" is rated R mostly for a bit of violence and for themes. There is a slash aspect to the story, in that Frodo's aggressive admirer is another male. "The Way of Vengeance" got the R rating for the same reasons, and probably deserved it more than "In Safekeeping." After reading more of the R rated fics, here, I have contemplated changing them to PG-13, since they really aren't as nasty as I'd originally thought!
Amelia Rose - Frodo's much more himself now that his nasty fever is gone. Lotho will have to try new tactics if he wants to get Frodo to trust him at all.
TTTurtle - Lotho has no idea of what Frodo has been through so far, so he doesn't know what he's dealing with. There's some angstiness ahead, certainly, and not just for Frodo! I've seen the new pictures from RotK, and I think I know the one you mean. I know I'll be sitting in the theater with tears running down my face!
Aratlithiel - Sam won't be angry with you for stealing a muffin, as long as you're nice to Frodo! Lotho won't be giving up just yet, although he will be getting more desperate as Forelithe draws nearer. Frodo is feeling much better now, to the relief of everyone at Bag End.
Pebbles - Thanks for your kind words! Writing stories is sustaining me until the release of the next movie too. At least the extended DVD of TTT will be available in November! Frodo is trusting and sweet, but Bilbo is older and much more shrewd. Because he's so good - natured, Frodo is having to learn the hard way about who he can trust.
Jules6 - I'm glad you're enjoying this fic! I've had a lot of fun writing and posting it!
Shirebound - Bilbo was only as courteous to Lotho as he was strictly required to be, wasn't he? Frodo will feel some apprehension regarding his cousin as the story continues, but it's easy to develop a false sense of security if one isn't being noticeably threatened!
Endymion2 - Lotho's hopes have been dashed thus far. Saradoc is backing Bilbo 100 percent, now that he has agreed to Frodo's staying at Bag End. You want to see what else Lotho has up his sleeve? Read on!
Bookworm2000 - Lotho's subtle methods are no less mean - spirited than his overt actions. He hides a sneer behind a smile, that's certain. Merry's making a smaller appearance in this story, but you'll see him again before it's over! It was fun having Frodo, Sam and Merry all meet in one place as young hobbits.
FrodoBaggins1982 - Time for Lotho to try getting into Frodo's head? He's going to work on that in this chapter. Anytime Bilbo is around, you can bet Lotho will be minding himself. Right now, his plan is to carefully get Frodo to relax around him.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Author's note - I'm taking a little vacation to the Florida Keys pretty soon. I'll be gone from Aug. 28 to Sep. 4. Here's the plan. I'll upload chapter 15 before I leave, and chapter 16 the evening of Sep 4 when I return. Sorry for the one week gap that will be coming up, but the lure of sea, sand and sun is just impossible to resist! And now, an opportunistic Lotho gives the subtle approach one last try.
MBradford
(Wastin' away again in Margaritaville!)
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 14 - Making Assumptions
~*~Three days later~*~
Frodo hugged Merry as Saradoc readied the cart for the ride back to Brandy Hall. "I'm sorry you have to leave so soon, Mer," he said. "But Forelithe is only a few months away, so we'll see each other again soon."
Merry nodded. "You stay well until then," he admonished. "And no more accidents, please?"
Frodo laughed. "I'll try Mer. You take care of yourself too."
Merry hopped up into the cart beside his father, and they started for home.
"It was so good to see them again," Frodo remarked as he and Bilbo stood waving at the departing pair. "Did I really call out for Merry when I was ill?" Frodo couldn't remember being delirious with fever and shouting for the best friend he had known at that point in his life.
"You certainly did," Bilbo answered. "It was then that I sent for them, thinking it might do you some good to see them." His tone and expression were pensive as he spoke.
Frodo looked at Bilbo and gave him a knowing smile. "I think it was good for you too, if I'm not mistaken." Perhaps Bilbo had needed some reassurance as well, and who better to give it than the Master of Buckland?
"You see right through me as though I were naught but glass, my boy," Bilbo said with a laugh and a shake of his head. "I may have the advantage of years, but Saradoc has the advantage of experience. He knows well already the things I am only now learning about young hobbits." His eyes danced and a wry grin formed on his face. "It has been a great while since I was one of them."
"Did he tell you everything would be fine and not to worry about how you were doing as the guardian of a tweenager?" Frodo certainly hoped so. It would be awful if Bilbo blamed himself for anything that had happened.
"He did indeed, and I shall take his words to heart," Bilbo promised. "Although I am sorely tempted to make certain I never let you out of my sight again." Bilbo looked at Frodo with the expression of a mother bear watching over her cub.
Frodo gave Bilbo his best crestfallen look. "Does that mean I'll not be allowed to go for a walk today?" Frodo's strength had returned almost completely in the past few days, and he desperately wanted to breathe the fresh, if chilly air.
"No, Frodo, I realize that I cannot smother you constantly. If you wish to stretch your legs some, you certainly may." Bilbo favored Frodo with a serious look. "But be careful, and please steer clear of Lotho if you can. I simply cannot bring myself to trust him."
"I promise I'll try," Frodo said evenly. He himself was none too sure of Lotho's disposition toward him, but should they meet unexpectedly, he didn't want to be rude.
"Are you off on your way, then?" Bilbo quickly scanned Frodo's attire to make sure the lad had dressed warmly.
"If you don't mind it, I think I will walk for a while, just into town and back." Frodo looked up the path with interest, wondering what was going on in Hobbiton that bright winter morning. "Are there any errands you wish completed?"
"Come to think of it, I do have one of Master Goodbody's books regarding herbs. If you would take it back to him, I would be grateful." Frodo nodded and Bilbo stepped inside to retrieve the book. He emerged again a moment later and handed the small leather bound volume of herbal cures to Frodo.
"Thank you, Uncle," Frodo called as he closed the gate behind him. "I won't be long, I promise!" He waved and walked away down the path, breathing the fresh air into his now clear lungs.
He was glad to see that the snow was melted off the path. A walk was certainly more enjoyable without sliding this way and that on cold snow and ice. He tried to remember Bilbo's past comments on the winters in Hobbiton and how long and cold they usually were. He seemed to recall Bilbo saying that winters were usually mild, and that spring often appeared to arrive suddenly. Frodo always noted the first day the sun felt warm on his face and the ground began to send tender green shoots of grass up among the brown ones.
The stone bridge over the mill pond was coming up ahead of him and Frodo paused to pick up a semi - flat stone to skip across the water. Much of the ice had cleared and a fair expanse of the pond's surface stretched out from the bridge to the edge of the water. At the highest point of the curved structure he paused and sent the stone flying just so. It struck the pond and leapt back into the air again, skipping four times before it finally sank to join the many others at the bottom. Four times! He would have to tell Merry in his next letter. Neither of them had managed a higher count yet, and the race was on to see who would be the first to make it five.
A farmer drove past in his cart, and Frodo waved cheerfully to him. The middle - aged hobbit looked a little surprised at first, but returned the wave in a friendly fashion. Frodo grinned to himself. He really was beginning to like Hobbiton, and the slower, calmer pace of life seemed to suit him. The bustle and noise of Brandy Hall were in stark contrast to the peaceful, simple way of life that seemed to prevail among the hobbits here.
Before long, he stood at the door of the Goodbodys' home, the book in hand. Frodo rang the bell and waited. Master Goodbody himself opened the door, and he was pleasantly surprised to see his former patient out and about.
"Well, young Master Baggins, you look a sight better than you did the last time we met, if I may say so," Goodbody said with his eyes twinkling. "That was a rather nasty fever you picked up, lad."
Frodo nodded in agreement. "Thank you for your help, Master Goodbody. I'm as good as new, thanks to you and Uncle Bilbo." He held out the book. "Uncle Bilbo asked me to return your book."
"Ahh. I hope he found it useful," Goodbody said as he accepted the book from Frodo. "It's never a bad thing to know how to combine a few common herbs to relieve one's maladies."
"Does this mean that every time I have a headache, Uncle Bilbo will produce some bitter concoction for me to drink?" Frodo made a face and laughed as Master Goodbody chuckled.
"Like as not it does, lad. I'd stay healthy were I in your position." The healer patted Frodo's shoulder reassuringly. "Old Bilbo will make himself a good guardian given time."
Frodo smiled fondly. "He already has, Master Goodbody." Frodo said good day to the healer and made his way back toward Bag End. When he returned, he planned to help Bilbo prepare a little something for elevenses, when Sam was to appear to begin his studies. The Gaffer had agreed to allow Bilbo and Frodo to tutor his youngest son, on the condition that when spring arrived Sam must not neglect his duties in the slightest, but make time to learn his letters when his chores were done.
"Ho, there, Mad Baggins!" A voice broke through Frodo's thoughts. He frowned and turned to see a group of tweens hanging about by the bridge. He didn't know any of their names, but they obviously knew his.
One of the boys punched the maker of the comment in the arm. "Mad Baggins the Second, you mean," he corrected.
Frodo ignored them as he passed by. Living at Brandy Hall had taught him how to deal with small - minded folk such as these, and he did his best to turn a deaf ear to their taunting.
The boys continued to laugh and point at Frodo. "Old Mad Baggins has got himself a fine young companion now, hasn't he?" one of them crowed loudly. "Got himself a handsome young lad to help occupy his time," another said suggestively, and Frodo felt his face redden despite his best efforts. Another voice called out, directly to him this time, as if in challenge. "Nice and cozy at Bag End, isn't it, Baggins? Who's takin' care of who under the Hill?"
Frodo spun around, intent upon the acerbic reply that was on the tip of his tongue. It died unspoken as he saw Lotho walking up behind the group of cat - callers, his steps sure and his posture challenging.
"I'll have you know that's my cousin you're talking to, Merlo," Lotho said casually as he favored the other tween with a look of disdain. "I advise you to mind your tongue, unless you'd like me to mind it for you, that is."
Lotho stood a little taller and broader than the other tweens gathered by the bridge, and he glared down at them in a manner that promised trouble if they didn't take heed. The three lads looked at each other and backed away, walking down the road in the opposite direction.
Lotho strode up to Frodo and thumped him on the back like an old friend. "They ought not to show their ignorance so thoroughly to their betters," he said lightly. "It's one thing to believe something of another person, but quite another to voice it publicly."
"And just what is it they believe of me?" Frodo said, a little disturbed by the taunts.
Lotho gave his best embarrassed smile, as if he were about to discuss something he would rather not. "It was bound to come about, Frodo." He sighed. "An old, eccentric bachelor like Bilbo Baggins, taking in a good - looking young lad like yourself - " he trailed off, shrugging his shoulders. "Some folk immediately begin to imagine certain things, if you understand me."
Frodo's face was burning as he listened to what Lotho was telling him. "Surely you don't mean - " he gasped in shock. "They don't think that I - that we - " He struggled to regain his composure. "That's absurd!"
"Oh, you and I know that very well, cousin," Lotho said soothingly. "But I'm afraid that you will have to get used to such things if you're to stay here in Hobbiton." He gestured around them. "Folk here have little else to do than talk about each other, whether they know the truth of matters or not. Idle tongue - wagging, you know."
Frodo looked at the ground, speechless. He had never dreamed that anyone would make such insinuations about his relationship with Bilbo. His heart clenched in his chest as he wondered if Bilbo knew what they were saying. He tried to show some measure of confidence when he spoke again.
"Thank you for what you said to them," Frodo said, a little sadly. "I fear I was about to say something myself, which I might have regretted later."
"Not to worry, cousin." Lotho replied. "We need not concern ourselves with them or their opinions. Besides, what goes on under the Hill isn't their business regardless."
Frodo's head snapped up and he blurted, "Nothing's going on. Nothing like what they were suggesting, at any rate."
"Now, now, Frodo. There's no need to let it upset you so." Lotho winked. "My advice is to be careful how vehemently you deny it, though. They'll only think you're trying to hide something."
Frodo tried to form a reply and failed. He stood and gaped as Lotho bade him farewell and strode away. Elbereth! Was he to endure such things on a daily basis here? When he walked through town would everyone be smiling politely and whispering behind their hands once he had passed by? And Bilbo! All the elderly gentlehobbit had done was to take in a lad who needed a home, a real home where Frodo felt wanted and comfortable.
Frodo turned and walked swiftly toward Bag End, his thoughts careening off one another chaotically. He reached the door and pulled it open, shutting it again behind him a little more forcefully than he had intended. Bilbo looked up from his book with a startled expression.
"Just because a door has good, strong hinges is no reason to put them to the test," he said gently, by way of chiding Frodo for his abrupt entry.
"Sorry, Uncle," Frodo said simply, turning away to keep Bilbo from seeing the pain and anger in his eyes. He hung his coat on a peg and plopped down into a chair, facing the hearth. He stared vacantly at the flames, his mouth set in a grim line.
Although Bilbo couldn't see Frodo's expression from where he was sitting, he could tell something was wrong by the boy's posture. The slump of Frodo's shoulders spoke volumes to him and he laid the book down on the table beside him.
"Frodo, lad? Is there something on your mind?" He prompted gently. He knew from experience how to get the tween to open up, even when Frodo would rather keep his own counsel. When Frodo didn't answer, Bilbo forged on. "It's not like you to burst upon a room like a thunderclap."
"I'm sorry, Uncle. Please forgive me," Frodo said numbly, still staring into the fire.
"Unless I miss my guess, something unpleasant has happened, else you wouldn't be looking so downcast." Bilbo allowed his tone to become the brisk one that brooked no arguments. "You promised, Frodo. No more holding back things that trouble you."
It was true, Frodo had promised Bilbo that he would speak his mind, rather than allowing his troubles to go unsolved. The results of holding back had never been positive, he reminded himself grimly.
"Some lads were hanging about the mill pond bridge, Uncle. They - they said some things," he stammered, not knowing how to approach the matter, embarrassed anew by the memory of the comments. "Things about you and me, and - and your purpose for taking me in." He looked down as he continued. "I'd rather not repeat them."
"Then don't," Bilbo said firmly. "I think I know what you're getting at, Frodo, and I don't blame you for being angry." He rose from his chair and crossed the room, coming to stand behind Frodo and rest his hands on the lad's shoulders. "I don't blame you for feeling hurt, or even embarrassed."
Frodo looked up, his gaze dark and brooding. "I can't help it, Uncle. It's horrible that they would say such things, or even believe them. It's so unfair to you, especially."
"Many things in life are unfair, Frodo, as I'm sure you're well aware," Bilbo counseled. "It doesn't matter to me what anyone says. I've grown quite accustomed to being the subject of rumor and even scorn among certain of Hobbiton's residents. It makes no difference to me, what anyone says of me, as I know the truth."
"That's what Lotho said," Frodo muttered, and immediately regretted it for the look on Bilbo's face.
"Lotho again?" He frowned. "I thought you were going to stay away from him."
Frodo looked both abashed and confused. "I planned to, but he wandered by and he stopped the others from taunting me. He offered me some 'friendly advice.'"
"And just what, specifically did Lotho say, lad?" Bilbo listened with interest. Any advice Lotho had given would have to be immediately countered by better.
Frodo took a breath before speaking. "He said that if I am to stay here in Hobbiton, I will have to get used to it. He said that people are bound to think - to think that certain things are going on."
"Did he, now?" Bilbo's glower lightened just a bit. "He was wrong on both counts, Frodo. One never has to grow accustomed to such a thing, but perhaps one does have to take it with a grain of salt." He patted Frodo's shoulder. "One must decide how much one will let such things affect him."
Bilbo's frown returned as he addressed the rest of Lotho's statement. "And as to people being bound to think perverse and improper thoughts regarding the two of us, I would say those who would do so are few in number. The folk of Hobbiton are, by and large, decent and hard - working. They enjoy a simple life, and believe the best of one another for the most part."
Frodo nodded. "So you think I should not let such things trouble me, and that things are not so dire as Lotho made them to be?"
"That is exactly what I think, Frodo lad," Bilbo said, adopting the crisp tone once again. "If you hold your head up and laugh at their foolishness, they will seem all the more foolish as a result." He grinned disarmingly. "I know that the heart of a dragon beats within you, lad. I've seen it's tenacity and resilience for myself, and I know that you will overcome such things with ease, if you put your mind to it."
Frodo smiled in spite of himself. Bilbo always had a way of gently pushing him to rise to the occasion, usually stating that Frodo simply would not be able to do aught else by nature. "Uncle, how do you always know the right things to say?" Frodo said, relieved by Bilbo's assurances.
"That is my own secret power, and I shall never tell," Bilbo said dramatically, unable to resist teasing the tween.
Frodo allowed Bilbo to pull him up from his chair and they made their way into the kitchen. "If people were to know what goes on here at Bag End, I think they would all be sorry they don't live here too," Frodo said thoughtfully as he poured a cup of tea.
~*~
Lotho was pleased with himself. Not only had he managed to make himself look like Frodo's protective elder cousin, he had planted a seed of doubt in the lad's mind. The look on Frodo's face when Lotho had told him people were going to make certain assumptions had been just what he had hoped for.
Frodo had looked positively stricken, as if the whole of Middle Earth were falling down around him. Lotho could imagine Frodo hiding in shame under the Hill, declining invitations and isolating himself because of his perceived status as the plaything of a perverse old hobbit. Instead of berating those lads by the bridge, Lotho reflected, he should have thanked them for helping him.
A few more discussions like that, and that annoying little interloper should be running back to Buckland in no time! Lotho was in an inordinately cheerful mood for the remainder of the day.
~*~ To be continued~*~
FrodoBaggins87 - There was no way I could let Lotho get to Frodo while he was sick. Too many friends and family members in the way! I tried, but they just kept interfering! To answer your question about my other stories, "In Safekeeping" is rated R mostly for a bit of violence and for themes. There is a slash aspect to the story, in that Frodo's aggressive admirer is another male. "The Way of Vengeance" got the R rating for the same reasons, and probably deserved it more than "In Safekeeping." After reading more of the R rated fics, here, I have contemplated changing them to PG-13, since they really aren't as nasty as I'd originally thought!
Amelia Rose - Frodo's much more himself now that his nasty fever is gone. Lotho will have to try new tactics if he wants to get Frodo to trust him at all.
TTTurtle - Lotho has no idea of what Frodo has been through so far, so he doesn't know what he's dealing with. There's some angstiness ahead, certainly, and not just for Frodo! I've seen the new pictures from RotK, and I think I know the one you mean. I know I'll be sitting in the theater with tears running down my face!
Aratlithiel - Sam won't be angry with you for stealing a muffin, as long as you're nice to Frodo! Lotho won't be giving up just yet, although he will be getting more desperate as Forelithe draws nearer. Frodo is feeling much better now, to the relief of everyone at Bag End.
Pebbles - Thanks for your kind words! Writing stories is sustaining me until the release of the next movie too. At least the extended DVD of TTT will be available in November! Frodo is trusting and sweet, but Bilbo is older and much more shrewd. Because he's so good - natured, Frodo is having to learn the hard way about who he can trust.
Jules6 - I'm glad you're enjoying this fic! I've had a lot of fun writing and posting it!
Shirebound - Bilbo was only as courteous to Lotho as he was strictly required to be, wasn't he? Frodo will feel some apprehension regarding his cousin as the story continues, but it's easy to develop a false sense of security if one isn't being noticeably threatened!
Endymion2 - Lotho's hopes have been dashed thus far. Saradoc is backing Bilbo 100 percent, now that he has agreed to Frodo's staying at Bag End. You want to see what else Lotho has up his sleeve? Read on!
Bookworm2000 - Lotho's subtle methods are no less mean - spirited than his overt actions. He hides a sneer behind a smile, that's certain. Merry's making a smaller appearance in this story, but you'll see him again before it's over! It was fun having Frodo, Sam and Merry all meet in one place as young hobbits.
FrodoBaggins1982 - Time for Lotho to try getting into Frodo's head? He's going to work on that in this chapter. Anytime Bilbo is around, you can bet Lotho will be minding himself. Right now, his plan is to carefully get Frodo to relax around him.
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Author's note - I'm taking a little vacation to the Florida Keys pretty soon. I'll be gone from Aug. 28 to Sep. 4. Here's the plan. I'll upload chapter 15 before I leave, and chapter 16 the evening of Sep 4 when I return. Sorry for the one week gap that will be coming up, but the lure of sea, sand and sun is just impossible to resist! And now, an opportunistic Lotho gives the subtle approach one last try.
MBradford
(Wastin' away again in Margaritaville!)
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Chapter 14 - Making Assumptions
~*~Three days later~*~
Frodo hugged Merry as Saradoc readied the cart for the ride back to Brandy Hall. "I'm sorry you have to leave so soon, Mer," he said. "But Forelithe is only a few months away, so we'll see each other again soon."
Merry nodded. "You stay well until then," he admonished. "And no more accidents, please?"
Frodo laughed. "I'll try Mer. You take care of yourself too."
Merry hopped up into the cart beside his father, and they started for home.
"It was so good to see them again," Frodo remarked as he and Bilbo stood waving at the departing pair. "Did I really call out for Merry when I was ill?" Frodo couldn't remember being delirious with fever and shouting for the best friend he had known at that point in his life.
"You certainly did," Bilbo answered. "It was then that I sent for them, thinking it might do you some good to see them." His tone and expression were pensive as he spoke.
Frodo looked at Bilbo and gave him a knowing smile. "I think it was good for you too, if I'm not mistaken." Perhaps Bilbo had needed some reassurance as well, and who better to give it than the Master of Buckland?
"You see right through me as though I were naught but glass, my boy," Bilbo said with a laugh and a shake of his head. "I may have the advantage of years, but Saradoc has the advantage of experience. He knows well already the things I am only now learning about young hobbits." His eyes danced and a wry grin formed on his face. "It has been a great while since I was one of them."
"Did he tell you everything would be fine and not to worry about how you were doing as the guardian of a tweenager?" Frodo certainly hoped so. It would be awful if Bilbo blamed himself for anything that had happened.
"He did indeed, and I shall take his words to heart," Bilbo promised. "Although I am sorely tempted to make certain I never let you out of my sight again." Bilbo looked at Frodo with the expression of a mother bear watching over her cub.
Frodo gave Bilbo his best crestfallen look. "Does that mean I'll not be allowed to go for a walk today?" Frodo's strength had returned almost completely in the past few days, and he desperately wanted to breathe the fresh, if chilly air.
"No, Frodo, I realize that I cannot smother you constantly. If you wish to stretch your legs some, you certainly may." Bilbo favored Frodo with a serious look. "But be careful, and please steer clear of Lotho if you can. I simply cannot bring myself to trust him."
"I promise I'll try," Frodo said evenly. He himself was none too sure of Lotho's disposition toward him, but should they meet unexpectedly, he didn't want to be rude.
"Are you off on your way, then?" Bilbo quickly scanned Frodo's attire to make sure the lad had dressed warmly.
"If you don't mind it, I think I will walk for a while, just into town and back." Frodo looked up the path with interest, wondering what was going on in Hobbiton that bright winter morning. "Are there any errands you wish completed?"
"Come to think of it, I do have one of Master Goodbody's books regarding herbs. If you would take it back to him, I would be grateful." Frodo nodded and Bilbo stepped inside to retrieve the book. He emerged again a moment later and handed the small leather bound volume of herbal cures to Frodo.
"Thank you, Uncle," Frodo called as he closed the gate behind him. "I won't be long, I promise!" He waved and walked away down the path, breathing the fresh air into his now clear lungs.
He was glad to see that the snow was melted off the path. A walk was certainly more enjoyable without sliding this way and that on cold snow and ice. He tried to remember Bilbo's past comments on the winters in Hobbiton and how long and cold they usually were. He seemed to recall Bilbo saying that winters were usually mild, and that spring often appeared to arrive suddenly. Frodo always noted the first day the sun felt warm on his face and the ground began to send tender green shoots of grass up among the brown ones.
The stone bridge over the mill pond was coming up ahead of him and Frodo paused to pick up a semi - flat stone to skip across the water. Much of the ice had cleared and a fair expanse of the pond's surface stretched out from the bridge to the edge of the water. At the highest point of the curved structure he paused and sent the stone flying just so. It struck the pond and leapt back into the air again, skipping four times before it finally sank to join the many others at the bottom. Four times! He would have to tell Merry in his next letter. Neither of them had managed a higher count yet, and the race was on to see who would be the first to make it five.
A farmer drove past in his cart, and Frodo waved cheerfully to him. The middle - aged hobbit looked a little surprised at first, but returned the wave in a friendly fashion. Frodo grinned to himself. He really was beginning to like Hobbiton, and the slower, calmer pace of life seemed to suit him. The bustle and noise of Brandy Hall were in stark contrast to the peaceful, simple way of life that seemed to prevail among the hobbits here.
Before long, he stood at the door of the Goodbodys' home, the book in hand. Frodo rang the bell and waited. Master Goodbody himself opened the door, and he was pleasantly surprised to see his former patient out and about.
"Well, young Master Baggins, you look a sight better than you did the last time we met, if I may say so," Goodbody said with his eyes twinkling. "That was a rather nasty fever you picked up, lad."
Frodo nodded in agreement. "Thank you for your help, Master Goodbody. I'm as good as new, thanks to you and Uncle Bilbo." He held out the book. "Uncle Bilbo asked me to return your book."
"Ahh. I hope he found it useful," Goodbody said as he accepted the book from Frodo. "It's never a bad thing to know how to combine a few common herbs to relieve one's maladies."
"Does this mean that every time I have a headache, Uncle Bilbo will produce some bitter concoction for me to drink?" Frodo made a face and laughed as Master Goodbody chuckled.
"Like as not it does, lad. I'd stay healthy were I in your position." The healer patted Frodo's shoulder reassuringly. "Old Bilbo will make himself a good guardian given time."
Frodo smiled fondly. "He already has, Master Goodbody." Frodo said good day to the healer and made his way back toward Bag End. When he returned, he planned to help Bilbo prepare a little something for elevenses, when Sam was to appear to begin his studies. The Gaffer had agreed to allow Bilbo and Frodo to tutor his youngest son, on the condition that when spring arrived Sam must not neglect his duties in the slightest, but make time to learn his letters when his chores were done.
"Ho, there, Mad Baggins!" A voice broke through Frodo's thoughts. He frowned and turned to see a group of tweens hanging about by the bridge. He didn't know any of their names, but they obviously knew his.
One of the boys punched the maker of the comment in the arm. "Mad Baggins the Second, you mean," he corrected.
Frodo ignored them as he passed by. Living at Brandy Hall had taught him how to deal with small - minded folk such as these, and he did his best to turn a deaf ear to their taunting.
The boys continued to laugh and point at Frodo. "Old Mad Baggins has got himself a fine young companion now, hasn't he?" one of them crowed loudly. "Got himself a handsome young lad to help occupy his time," another said suggestively, and Frodo felt his face redden despite his best efforts. Another voice called out, directly to him this time, as if in challenge. "Nice and cozy at Bag End, isn't it, Baggins? Who's takin' care of who under the Hill?"
Frodo spun around, intent upon the acerbic reply that was on the tip of his tongue. It died unspoken as he saw Lotho walking up behind the group of cat - callers, his steps sure and his posture challenging.
"I'll have you know that's my cousin you're talking to, Merlo," Lotho said casually as he favored the other tween with a look of disdain. "I advise you to mind your tongue, unless you'd like me to mind it for you, that is."
Lotho stood a little taller and broader than the other tweens gathered by the bridge, and he glared down at them in a manner that promised trouble if they didn't take heed. The three lads looked at each other and backed away, walking down the road in the opposite direction.
Lotho strode up to Frodo and thumped him on the back like an old friend. "They ought not to show their ignorance so thoroughly to their betters," he said lightly. "It's one thing to believe something of another person, but quite another to voice it publicly."
"And just what is it they believe of me?" Frodo said, a little disturbed by the taunts.
Lotho gave his best embarrassed smile, as if he were about to discuss something he would rather not. "It was bound to come about, Frodo." He sighed. "An old, eccentric bachelor like Bilbo Baggins, taking in a good - looking young lad like yourself - " he trailed off, shrugging his shoulders. "Some folk immediately begin to imagine certain things, if you understand me."
Frodo's face was burning as he listened to what Lotho was telling him. "Surely you don't mean - " he gasped in shock. "They don't think that I - that we - " He struggled to regain his composure. "That's absurd!"
"Oh, you and I know that very well, cousin," Lotho said soothingly. "But I'm afraid that you will have to get used to such things if you're to stay here in Hobbiton." He gestured around them. "Folk here have little else to do than talk about each other, whether they know the truth of matters or not. Idle tongue - wagging, you know."
Frodo looked at the ground, speechless. He had never dreamed that anyone would make such insinuations about his relationship with Bilbo. His heart clenched in his chest as he wondered if Bilbo knew what they were saying. He tried to show some measure of confidence when he spoke again.
"Thank you for what you said to them," Frodo said, a little sadly. "I fear I was about to say something myself, which I might have regretted later."
"Not to worry, cousin." Lotho replied. "We need not concern ourselves with them or their opinions. Besides, what goes on under the Hill isn't their business regardless."
Frodo's head snapped up and he blurted, "Nothing's going on. Nothing like what they were suggesting, at any rate."
"Now, now, Frodo. There's no need to let it upset you so." Lotho winked. "My advice is to be careful how vehemently you deny it, though. They'll only think you're trying to hide something."
Frodo tried to form a reply and failed. He stood and gaped as Lotho bade him farewell and strode away. Elbereth! Was he to endure such things on a daily basis here? When he walked through town would everyone be smiling politely and whispering behind their hands once he had passed by? And Bilbo! All the elderly gentlehobbit had done was to take in a lad who needed a home, a real home where Frodo felt wanted and comfortable.
Frodo turned and walked swiftly toward Bag End, his thoughts careening off one another chaotically. He reached the door and pulled it open, shutting it again behind him a little more forcefully than he had intended. Bilbo looked up from his book with a startled expression.
"Just because a door has good, strong hinges is no reason to put them to the test," he said gently, by way of chiding Frodo for his abrupt entry.
"Sorry, Uncle," Frodo said simply, turning away to keep Bilbo from seeing the pain and anger in his eyes. He hung his coat on a peg and plopped down into a chair, facing the hearth. He stared vacantly at the flames, his mouth set in a grim line.
Although Bilbo couldn't see Frodo's expression from where he was sitting, he could tell something was wrong by the boy's posture. The slump of Frodo's shoulders spoke volumes to him and he laid the book down on the table beside him.
"Frodo, lad? Is there something on your mind?" He prompted gently. He knew from experience how to get the tween to open up, even when Frodo would rather keep his own counsel. When Frodo didn't answer, Bilbo forged on. "It's not like you to burst upon a room like a thunderclap."
"I'm sorry, Uncle. Please forgive me," Frodo said numbly, still staring into the fire.
"Unless I miss my guess, something unpleasant has happened, else you wouldn't be looking so downcast." Bilbo allowed his tone to become the brisk one that brooked no arguments. "You promised, Frodo. No more holding back things that trouble you."
It was true, Frodo had promised Bilbo that he would speak his mind, rather than allowing his troubles to go unsolved. The results of holding back had never been positive, he reminded himself grimly.
"Some lads were hanging about the mill pond bridge, Uncle. They - they said some things," he stammered, not knowing how to approach the matter, embarrassed anew by the memory of the comments. "Things about you and me, and - and your purpose for taking me in." He looked down as he continued. "I'd rather not repeat them."
"Then don't," Bilbo said firmly. "I think I know what you're getting at, Frodo, and I don't blame you for being angry." He rose from his chair and crossed the room, coming to stand behind Frodo and rest his hands on the lad's shoulders. "I don't blame you for feeling hurt, or even embarrassed."
Frodo looked up, his gaze dark and brooding. "I can't help it, Uncle. It's horrible that they would say such things, or even believe them. It's so unfair to you, especially."
"Many things in life are unfair, Frodo, as I'm sure you're well aware," Bilbo counseled. "It doesn't matter to me what anyone says. I've grown quite accustomed to being the subject of rumor and even scorn among certain of Hobbiton's residents. It makes no difference to me, what anyone says of me, as I know the truth."
"That's what Lotho said," Frodo muttered, and immediately regretted it for the look on Bilbo's face.
"Lotho again?" He frowned. "I thought you were going to stay away from him."
Frodo looked both abashed and confused. "I planned to, but he wandered by and he stopped the others from taunting me. He offered me some 'friendly advice.'"
"And just what, specifically did Lotho say, lad?" Bilbo listened with interest. Any advice Lotho had given would have to be immediately countered by better.
Frodo took a breath before speaking. "He said that if I am to stay here in Hobbiton, I will have to get used to it. He said that people are bound to think - to think that certain things are going on."
"Did he, now?" Bilbo's glower lightened just a bit. "He was wrong on both counts, Frodo. One never has to grow accustomed to such a thing, but perhaps one does have to take it with a grain of salt." He patted Frodo's shoulder. "One must decide how much one will let such things affect him."
Bilbo's frown returned as he addressed the rest of Lotho's statement. "And as to people being bound to think perverse and improper thoughts regarding the two of us, I would say those who would do so are few in number. The folk of Hobbiton are, by and large, decent and hard - working. They enjoy a simple life, and believe the best of one another for the most part."
Frodo nodded. "So you think I should not let such things trouble me, and that things are not so dire as Lotho made them to be?"
"That is exactly what I think, Frodo lad," Bilbo said, adopting the crisp tone once again. "If you hold your head up and laugh at their foolishness, they will seem all the more foolish as a result." He grinned disarmingly. "I know that the heart of a dragon beats within you, lad. I've seen it's tenacity and resilience for myself, and I know that you will overcome such things with ease, if you put your mind to it."
Frodo smiled in spite of himself. Bilbo always had a way of gently pushing him to rise to the occasion, usually stating that Frodo simply would not be able to do aught else by nature. "Uncle, how do you always know the right things to say?" Frodo said, relieved by Bilbo's assurances.
"That is my own secret power, and I shall never tell," Bilbo said dramatically, unable to resist teasing the tween.
Frodo allowed Bilbo to pull him up from his chair and they made their way into the kitchen. "If people were to know what goes on here at Bag End, I think they would all be sorry they don't live here too," Frodo said thoughtfully as he poured a cup of tea.
~*~
Lotho was pleased with himself. Not only had he managed to make himself look like Frodo's protective elder cousin, he had planted a seed of doubt in the lad's mind. The look on Frodo's face when Lotho had told him people were going to make certain assumptions had been just what he had hoped for.
Frodo had looked positively stricken, as if the whole of Middle Earth were falling down around him. Lotho could imagine Frodo hiding in shame under the Hill, declining invitations and isolating himself because of his perceived status as the plaything of a perverse old hobbit. Instead of berating those lads by the bridge, Lotho reflected, he should have thanked them for helping him.
A few more discussions like that, and that annoying little interloper should be running back to Buckland in no time! Lotho was in an inordinately cheerful mood for the remainder of the day.
~*~ To be continued~*~